Yamaha's FZ6R makes for a very solid full size LAMS motorcycle.

Yamaha refers to its FZ6R as one of the coolest and most desirable models in the LAMS category for learner and provisional bikes, and after spending a couple of weeks with one, we wouldn’t really argue.

Buying a LAMS-approved bike can be a massive decision, the task of finding a balance between the right size that you can handle while still having a typically good engine not as simple as you’d first think.

If you compare the FZ6R to the YZF-R125 that we put through its paces last month, you’ll notice there’s night and day difference in their qualities and purposes in the LAMS segment.

Read on and we’ll tell you why…

DESIGN AND STYLING
While the FZ6R ticks many boxes aesthetically and looks especially nice in the red and white colour scheme, you’d have to say that the half-faired XJ6S that it’s based on does look slightly better.

It’s not that the FZ6R doesn’t look the goods, more that the fully faired look of the model doesn’t quite pass as being a super sportsbike with fairings, basically sitting between the pair as it’s got the high handlebars of a naked, albeit faired.

Adding to that, the mid-ship muffler stemming from the 4-2-1 exhaust is a nice touch.

The quality of the bike is very much desirable though, the build of the components looking exceptionally good as you’d expect from Yamaha when it comes to a 600cc motorcycle.

One of the only shortfalls in my opinion is the use of rubber on the upside of the footpegs, although some do prefer the feel of them over long distances.

What’s more, the FZ1-inspired instrument cluster is a cinch to operate as with most Yamahas, meaning you’ll be able to focus on the job at hand without being confused by what’s going on in the dash department.

Yamaha calls it ‘leisure sport’, which I believe is a suitable name for the bike to follow.

The FZ1-inspired instrument panel.

HANDLING
You’ll notice as soon as you sit on the FZ6R that it’s going a very touring-like feel to it, with its high handlebar position, low seat height, relaxed seating and short reach to the controls in both the arm and leg department.

You sit quite far toward the rear of the bike, which makes balances the weight bias toward the rear, meaning you really have to purposely position your body weight forward for optimum turning.

The good thing about this particular ride is that Yamaha has designed it so you’ll be comfortable riding through town, yet it’ll handle good enough to go for a blast through the mountains on the weekends.

It’s not quick steering like a supersport and certainly isn’t a stiff feeling motorcycle, but what it does do it remain stable the majority of the time and reacts consistently to many types of road surfaces whether they’re round or smooth.

That particular point can be of a real benefit to newcomers in the riding world, assisting them in comfortably learning the ropes without too many chances of a big scare.

The conventional ‘upside-up’ forks aren’t adjustable and to have a tendency to dip under heavy braking via the consistent Brembo/Nissin stoppers, which themselves are consistent and offer a great lever feel.

The rear shock absorber has a seven step preload adjuster, although chances are you won’t require too much adjustment unless you’re particularly heavy and need to reduce the sag.

If a reliable means of transportation is what you’re looking for, as well as a fun bit of gear to ride with your old man or mates on the weekend, then there’s every chance you’ll appreciate what the FZ6R has to offer.

POWER
The liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-cylinder, four-valve DOHC engine in the LAMS FZ6R is restricted via a throttle stop, however its character makes for a great learning ground for the future.

The engine has a bore and stroke of 65.5 x 44.5mm and a high compression ratio of 12.2:1, performing like a true inline four to create a perfect world for those cutting their teeth before stepping up to a modern full power sportsbike.

Internally, the engine features a new cylinder head and cam profile, plus forged aluminium pistons and Electronic Fuel Injection that’s operated by a compact 32-bit ECU.

Those who have ridden more powerful rides will be left yearning for more from the engine department, but when compared to the YZF-R125 or other similar small-bore LAMS bikes, the FZ6R simply shines above them.

You need to be careful when applying the throttle because the twist is super short, however the EFI does make the power exceptionally smooth as it builds power around 5000rpm and then simply stays there without too much of a rush as you rev toward its maximum power output of 10,000rpm.

The six-speed gearbox is silky smooth to the point that you’ll appreciate it with every shift, something that clearly sets the FZ6R ahead of so many other LAMS bikes on the market.

When in training for an inline four-cylinder, there’s no doubt that this bike’s almost perfect when it comes to its engine characteristics.

The FZ6R features full fairings despite its relaxted ergonomics package.

CONCLUSION
The FZ6R is one of those bikes that you see in the dealership that doesn’t catch your attention at first glance, but look deeper into its design brief and you’ll very much become attracted to its traits.

It’s an inexpensive option that comes with the boasting power of riding a Yamaha, and there’s also no shame in sticking with this ride once you upgrade to your full licence if there’s the need to do so.

Yamaha has produced a solid all-rounder this time out, one that is likely to shine a positive light on your motorcycling outlook if you’re looking to purchase your first road bike.

FAST FACTS
Moto Rating:
6.5/10 – It’s an all-round LAMS bike that’ll be good enough to hold onto even on your full licence.

Suited To:
Beginners-Intermediate riders

Bang For Buck:
TBA

Plus Points:
+ Component quality
+ Gearbox
+ All-round practicality

Minus Points:
– Certain styling points
– Extra short throttle twist

You can ride the FZ6R out on the open roads or in the busy towns. It's an all-rounder.